It's been an offseason of transformation for the Dallas Cowboys' defensive line. With significant departures setting the stage for an intense rebuild, team owner and general manager Jerry Jones swiftly made strategic moves to bolster the unit. The losses included edge rushers Dorance Armstrong Jr. and Dante Fowler Jr., defensive tackle Johnathan Hankins, and interior defensive lineman Neville Gallimore, all of whom found new homes with other NFL teams.
The exits of Armstrong and Fowler were particularly impactful, as both joined the Cowboys' NFC East rivals, the Washington Commanders. Hankins transitioned to the Seattle Seahawks, while Gallimore made his way to the Miami Dolphins. These departures left a notable gap in the Cowboys' defensive front, necessitating immediate and effective action from the team's management.
Reinforcements Arrive
On August 15, Jones orchestrated a trade with the New York Giants, securing veteran defensive tackle Jordan Phillips in exchange for a 2026 sixth-round pick and a future seventh-round pick. This acquisition was swiftly followed by the signing of veteran free agent edge rusher Carl Lawson, addressing the urgent need for experienced players on the defensive line.
A Major Addition
One of the most significant moves made by the Cowboys was the signing of 14-year NFL veteran defensive tackle Linval Joseph. Standing 6-foot-4 and weighing 329 pounds, Joseph brings a wealth of experience and a commanding physical presence to the team. Selected in the second round of the 2010 NFL Draft by the New York Giants, Joseph has had an illustrious career, playing for the NFL's top teams including the Minnesota Vikings, Los Angeles Chargers, Philadelphia Eagles, and Buffalo Bills.
Joseph's impressive resume boasts 26.5 sacks, eight forced fumbles, 57 tackles for loss, and 676 total tackles over 186 career games, with 170 starts. His performance earned him Pro Bowl selections in 2016 and 2017 during his time with the Minnesota Vikings. Additionally, Joseph was part of the Giants' Super Bowl-winning squad in his second NFL season in 2011, showcasing his ability to contribute to a championship-caliber team.
The Cowboys secured Joseph on a one-year deal that guarantees him $2.5 million, with the potential to earn up to $4 million through incentives. Beyond his on-field contributions, Joseph is expected to play a key mentoring role for the Cowboys’ 2023 first-round pick, defensive tackle Mazi Smith.
Defensive Upgrades
Last season, Dallas’ run defense allowed an average of 112.4 rushing yards per game, ranking 16th in the NFL. The addition of Joseph and other seasoned players not only aims to improve these stats but also to provide stability and leadership to a defensive line that has undergone significant changes.
As the upcoming season approaches, the Dallas Cowboys' efforts to rebuild their defensive line reflect a strategic approach by Jerry Jones and the team's management. By integrating experienced veterans with promising young talent, the Cowboys are positioning themselves to strengthen their defensive front and improve their overall performance. The upcoming season will be a critical test for this newly restructured unit, as they aim to demonstrate that their offseason moves have set the stage for success on the field.